Down Syndrome 101

With over 450,000 individuals with Down syndrome living in the US alone; and including affected parents and siblings, over 2 million people face this diagnosis every single day. 1 in 691 live births results in a Down syndrome diagnosis. The average age to give birth to a baby is 28. With an 80-85% termination rate: much work remains to give babies a fighting chance for life, love and happiness.

450,000

Individuals with Down Syndrome in the US

1 in 691

Live births born with Down syndrome

85%

Termination rate

At the core, a Down syndrome diagnosis includes:

Hypotonia (Low Muscle Tone):

Impacts speech, digestion, fitness, fine and gross motor skills and more. Our participants’ biggest obstacle. Every person with Down syndrome has low muscle tone. If you do not have strong core muscles you cannot sit up straight. If you cannot sit up straight you cannot take proper breaths. If you cannot take proper breaths: you cannot speak or read properly.

How GiGi's helps

Curriculum and materials customized to the unique learning styles of individuals with Down syndrome

Limited Opportunities:

Insufficient participation in extracurricular activities, employment, volunteerism and community engagement can result in depression, isolation; and prolonged ignorance from others.

How GiGi's helps

Innovative programs for adults focusing on self-confidence, fitness, nutrition and career skills

Addresses the need for improved adult opportunities

Career training center in a live retail café and through corporate partnerships

Limited Acceptance:

People with Down syndrome wear their diagnosis on their faces, and are often subjected to bullying, prejudice and cruelty. Wearing a Down syndrome diagnosis on their face, combined with the despicable prevalence of the “R-word” on social media, in sports and entertainment, and more: empirical differences can challenge emotional wellness and fundamental ACCEPTANCE every single day.

How GiGi's helps

Generation G: a movement, daily mindset and national campaign to build global acceptance and lasting social change. Generation G is a conscious decision to be better every day.

In 2017 Generation G launched the 321 Days of Acceptance” campaign, introducing the world to a new individual with Down syndrome every day for 321 straight days. Having received more than 1 million views in less than 100 days, the online campaign gallery can be viewed here